Two Hours in Dallas

We’re excited about a new Kimpton hotel that will be debuting in the former landmark Union Banker’s Building just east of downtown Dallas, in the action-packed neighborhood of Deep Ellum. Originally designed in 1916, the historic building will maintain its Beaux Arts design as it’s transformed to include 165 guest rooms, 5,000 square feet of meeting space, fitness center with a pool and signature restaurant, bar and lounge.Whether you’re traveling for business or juggling a full vacation itinerary, make time to sneak away to experience the bustling art and music mecca, located just steps from your room.

Rendering of the Kimpton Deep Ellum Hotel.

Tune In To The Scene

Deep Ellum, home to over thirty live music venues, is the biggest entertainment district in Dallas. Music is a huge part of its soul. If you find yourself with a free night, see who’s playing at one of the local hotspots — from the renowned, four thousand seat Bomb Factory to the more intimate Club DaDa. Don’t want to commit to a ticketed event? Drop into Off the Record, a bar and record store where there’s almost always a DJ spinning vinyl, or Adair’s Saloon, a honkytonk with a well-curated jukebox and live country music every night.

Live music in Deep Ellum (Image credit: @clarissaclicks via Twenty20)

Toast To Your Health

There’s no shortage of bars ranging from wild dive bars to high-end cocktail lounges. Visit Shoals Sound & Service for a step back in time thanks to retro interior design, a throwback soundtrack and classic cocktails. Nearby at Trick Pony, the cocktail bar inside Harlowe MXM, take a trip around the world with 80 different cocktails, each inspired by a different country. If beer is more your speed, head to Deep Ellum Brewing Company for a tour (which comes with three beers and a glass) or Braindead Brewing for creative craft brews like Party Pooper Pineapple Upside Down Cake Strong Ale.

Several Texas culinary sensations got their start in Deep Ellum. It was here here that Twisted Root Burger Co. began crafting customized burgers and Cane Rosso developed a massive fan following for its certified authentic Neapolitan style pizza pies before both restaurants opened locations across the state. And after spreading the good word of brisket at the farmer’s market, the couple behind Pecan Lodge opened their first brick and mortar here, drawing attraction and winning awards for their profound use of smoke. Even if you’re stopping in between meals, there’s never a bad time for a snack-sized slice of brisket.

Grab a camera and go on a self-led art walk through Deep Ellum. The neighborhood is known for having the highest concentration of vivid murals and street art, thanks in part to a project called 42 Murals. The Dallas Maps and Walks app offers a listing of some of the best but wandering aimlessly works just as well. While you’re at it, be sure to seek out the green, red and yellow neon sign welcoming visitors to Deep Ellum with a glowing streak of Southern hospitality. It’s one of the best spots in town to snap a Dallas selfie.